The gas-chromatographic analysis of volatile constituents in polymers, with particular reference to moisture content

Abstract

A versatile, laboratory gas-chromatographic unit is described for the determination of water and other volatile constituents in polymer powders. The sample, contained in a disposable glass tube, is heated in a closed loop to release the volatile constituents, which are subsequently swept on to the gas-chromatographic column for analysis. The factors influencing the design of the apparatus, calibration for water and accuracy of the method at the various levels of moisture found in vinyl, acrylic and polyolefin polymers are discussed.